A Mini Forest of Heritage: Assessing the Mango (Mangifera indica L.) Field Gene Bank at Gurudas College in the Context of the Miyawaki Model
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31632/ijsblc.2025.v02i01.005Keywords:
Ex Situ Conservation, Goals (SDGS), Miyawaki Model, Mango Field Gene Bank, Sustainable Development Gurudas College, Traditional Mango VarietiesAbstract
Educational campuses, when managed as green open spaces, not only enhance the learning environment but also act as crucial ecological nodes within the urban landscape. The Mango Field Gene Bank established at Gurudas College, Kolkata, represents an innovative model for ex situ conservation of traditional mango (Mangifera indica L.) varieties from Malda and Murshidabad districts of West Bengal. Designed as a dense orchard resembling a “mini forest,” this initiative combines genetic conservation with ecological restoration. The study explores whether the mango orchard aligns with the Miyawaki model of afforestation, an approach that promotes rapid, multilayered native forest development. Through conceptual and ecological analysis, the article highlights how this living repository embodies principles of biodiversity preservation, microclimate regulation and educational engagement, while suggesting ways to strengthen its resemblance to a Miyawaki-type forest ecosystem.
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